New Accounting Pronouncements

3 Months Ended

Mar. 31, 2014

New Accounting Pronouncements and Changes in Accounting Principles [Abstract]

New Accounting Pronouncements

New Accounting Pronouncements - MGE Energy and MGE.

a.Obligations Resulting from Joint and Several Liability Arrangements for Which the Total Amount of the Obligation is Fixed at the Reporting Date.

In February 2013, the FASB issued authoritative guidance within the Codification's Balance Sheet topic that provides guidance on the recognition, measurement, and disclosure of obligations resulting from joint and several liability arrangements for which the total amount of the obligation is fixed at the reporting date. This authoritative guidance became effective January 1, 2014. The authoritative guidance did not have a financial or disclosure impact.

b. Presentation of an Unrecognized Tax Benefit.

In July 2013, the FASB issued authoritative guidance within the Codification's Income Statement topic that provides guidance on the presentation of an unrecognized tax benefit when a net operating loss carryforward, a similar tax loss, or a tax credit carryforward exist. The authoritative guidance was issued to eliminate diversity in practice by providing guidance on the presentation of unrecognized tax benefits. This authoritative guidance became effective January 1, 2014. The authoritative guidance will not have a financial statement or disclosure impact, unlessMGE Energy or its subsidiaries are in a net operating loss position. MGE Energy or its subsidiaries are currently not in a net operating loss position.